How to Secure a Door That Opens Outward: Full Guide!

As a homeowner, ensuring the safety and security of our family and valuable belongings is a top priority. While we take several measures to secure our homes, one area that often gets overlooked is the outward opening doors.

It’s a known fact that outward opening doors are more vulnerable to security breaches than inward opening doors, making them an easy target for intruders. Fortunately, there are several steps that you can take to secure your outward opening doors and keep your home safe from potential break-ins.

In this article, we will discuss the common security issues with outward opening doors and the steps you can take to secure them. So let’s get started!

Types of Outward Opening Doors

Outward opening doors come in various types, and knowing which type you have is crucial to determine the best way to secure it. Here are some of the most common types of outward opening doors:

Single swing doors: These doors have one panel that swings outward to open. They are commonly used for main entrances or exits.

French doors: French doors consist of two panels that open outward, providing a larger opening than single swing doors. They are commonly used for patios, decks, and balconies.

Sliding patio doors: Sliding patio doors are another popular type of outward opening doors. They slide open horizontally, providing an unobstructed view of the outdoors.

Other types of outward opening doors: Other types of outward opening doors include storm doors, Dutch doors, and garden doors.

Knowing which type of outward opening door you have will help you determine the best way to secure it. The next section will discuss the common security issues with outward opening doors.

Common Security Issues with Outward Opening Doors

While outward opening doors provide many benefits, such as letting in more natural light and providing a wider opening, they also come with some security issues that homeowners should be aware of. Here are some of the most common security issues with outward opening doors:

Weak and exposed hinges: Outward opening doors are more vulnerable to forced entry because the hinges are exposed to the outside, making them an easy target for intruders to tamper with or remove.

Lack of deadbolts: Many outward opening doors only have a standard lock, which can easily be picked or forced open. Without a deadbolt, intruders can quickly gain access to your home.

Vulnerable door frames: Weak door frames can also make outward opening doors more susceptible to break-ins. Intruders can easily kick in or pry open a door that is secured to a weak frame.

Inadequate locks: Some outward opening doors may have inadequate locks that can easily be bypassed, making it easy for intruders to gain access to your home.

How to Secure Outward Opening Doors

Securing your outward opening doors may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of know-how, it’s relatively easy to do. Here are some steps you can take to secure your outward opening doors:

Upgrade Hinges

Upgrading your hinges is one of the easiest ways to secure your outward opening door. Here are some tips on how to upgrade your hinges:

1. Use heavy-duty hinges: Heavy-duty hinges are stronger and more durable than standard hinges, making them more resistant to tampering and forced entry.
2. Install hinge screws that are at least 3 inches long: Longer screws can provide a stronger anchor for the hinges, making it harder for intruders to remove them.

Install a Deadbolt

Installing a deadbolt is an essential step in securing your outward opening door. Here are some tips on how to install a deadbolt:

1. Choose the right type of deadbolt: There are many types of deadbolts available, including single-cylinder, double-cylinder, and smart locks. Choose one that meets your needs and budget.
2. Properly install the deadbolt: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and ensure that the deadbolt is properly installed and aligned with the strike plate. Here is my guide on how to install a deadbolt on wooden or metal door.

Strengthen the Door Frame

Strengthening the door frame can also help secure your outward opening door. Here are some tips on how to strengthen the door frame:

1. Install a reinforcement plate: A reinforcement plate is a metal plate that is attached to the door frame to reinforce it. It can help prevent the frame from splitting or breaking during a forced entry attempt.
2. Use longer screws: Longer screws can provide a stronger anchor for the door frame, making it harder for intruders to kick in the door.
3. Consider installing a security strike plate: A security strike plate is a metal plate that is attached to the door frame to reinforce the area around the lock. It can help prevent the lock from being forced open.

Use Superior Locks

Using adequate locks is another critical step in securing your outward opening door. Here are some tips on how to use adequate locks:

1. Consider a multi-point locking system: A multi-point locking system has multiple locks along the door frame, making it more difficult for intruders to break in.
2. Install a security bar or latch: A security bar or latch can prevent the door from being forced open, even if the lock is bypassed.
3. Use a smart lock or electronic lock: Smart locks or electronic locks offer added security features, such as remote access and automatic locking. You can also receive alerts on some smart locks when they are used so that you can react before a break-in happens.

Additional Security Measures

While upgrading your hinges, installing a deadbolt, strengthening the door frame, and using adequate locks are all critical steps in securing your outward opening doors, there are additional security measures you can take to provide an extra layer of protection. Here are some additional security measures you can take:

Install a peephole or video doorbell: Installing a peephole or video doorbell can help you see who is at your door before you open it. This can be especially useful if you are not expecting anyone or if you feel uneasy about answering the door.

Add lighting and surveillance cameras: Adding lighting and surveillance cameras to the area around your outward opening door can deter intruders and help you keep an eye on your home even when you’re not there.

Trim landscaping and eliminate hiding places: Overgrown landscaping and clutter around your outward opening door can provide cover for intruders. Keep the area around your door clear and well-lit to deter potential intruders.

Conclusion

Securing your outward opening doors is crucial in protecting your home and your loved ones from potential break-ins. By upgrading your hinges, installing a deadbolt, strengthening your door frame, and using adequate locks, you can significantly improve the security of your outward opening doors.

Additionally, by taking extra security measures like installing a peephole or video doorbell, adding lighting and surveillance cameras, and trimming landscaping, you can further enhance the safety and security of your home.

Remember, home security is an ongoing process, and it’s essential to stay vigilant and aware of potential security risks. By following the steps outlined in this article and regularly assessing your home’s security needs, you can help keep your home and your loved ones safe.